INTERVIEW

What did you define as your starting point within the industry?

I know I should probably say when we won the film grant to make “Elvis Killed My Brother” because that lead directly to working with professional crew, festival screenings, script development funding and even meeting some of my cinema idols..

But the real starting point for me was one day I saw a guy I knew from university, Sion Michel, by the side of the road filming with an old camera. It struck me - I was trying to get ‘all qualified’ with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film & Television and yet what I really needed to do was just start making films like I did when I was a kid. I stopped and offered to help. I still got the degree and all that but from then on it was just in the background to the headline act of just doing it.

What are the benefits of being a sort after TVC director?

Are you kidding? It is the best job in the world. I love traveling and working with new and interesting people. You get to try out all the best equipment, try different film stocks, machines, specialist tools, effects packages – you name it. It’s the leading edge.

How do you keep them coming back?

It’s all about friendships in the end. The experience of creating a production bonds the team. Client to agency, agency to production company, production company to freelance director, freelance director to crew, crew to caterer! A Gaffer once said to me, "You put on a great show for the clients"– that was a big rap as far as I was concerned.

What information do you arm yourself with to remain at the top of your craft?

I like to fuel up with loads of research. This is a trick picked up from working with art directors. It's also a terrific foundation when it comes to the shoot and working with actors. Plus it’s important to see films at the cinema with a paying audience. Their reactions don't lie.

What people do you have around you that you cannot succeed without?

I’ve been lucky to work with a number of producers who have a buzz surrounding them - they motivate their crews just by being on set. The thing great producers have in common is that they really look after their teams and they pay everyone on time. Crew climb over each other to work for them. I love working with producers who want to go all the way.

And Kim, what’s your plan of action for your career?

I'm building up a core audience to entertain. I also plan to keep working on commercials. I see myself constantly honing my craft.

When will it end and where do you think it will take you?

I’ll be doing this until they start throwing soil over me.

What would be your dream project?

I guess my dream project has a script that involves a mix of suspense, action, character driven drama and real humor.

And how do you go about making the decision to go out and get it?

I am always meeting people and showing relevant work. Going out there and 'getting it' is all part of the industry. I am lucky that there are so many great people that I have worked with. There is a broad range of footage that I can take to meetings to help illustrate ideas and approaches. This website is part of it. My new showreel is another part. It's a busy and exciting time.